When contacted by the Idaho Statesman this week, Houston would not confirm the transfer. Schools are prohibited from commenting officially on prospective student-athletes until they have signed a grant-in-aid agreement. Unless Hightower applies for a waiver from the NCAA, he will likely have to sit out the 2013 season and join the Cougars on the field in 2014.

After the midseason suspension, Hightower was suspended indefinitely again in February for a violation of team rules. Hightower recorded 31 tackles, one interception and one forced fumble in seven games. He will have two seasons of eligibility remaining when he officially joins the Cougars.